Moving Up: Transitioning Your Child to a New Classroom

Moving up to a new classroom is an exciting time filled with fun and opportunity.

We know transitions can sometimes be a little scary for both children and parents. That’s why our teachers and school staff are dedicated to supporting families every step of the way. Every child is different; for some, moving to a new classroom is fun and exciting, but for others, it may be more stressful. Our goal is to make transitions as smooth as possible, for everyone involved.

Our School Readiness Pathway ensures that each child is in the classroom that best meets their individual needs for proper growth and development. Each classroom is constructed with the children’s interests and learning abilities in mind. Because each classroom is unique to a specific age group, it allows teachers to focus on what the children in that class are ready to learn.

Your child’s teacher keeps a close eye on your child’s growth and development in order to know when the right time is for them to transition to the next classroom. When the time comes, we know that your child will be developmentally ready to move to the next level.

What to expect from the transition process . . .

• Your child’s teacher will let you know well in advance when your child is developmentally ready to transition to the next classroom.
• You’ll meet with your child’s current teacher and new teacher to discuss the transition, when you can discuss any questions you may have and tour the new classroom.
• Your child’s teacher will help prepare your child for the transition, for example, by having your child visit the new classroom multiple times in the weeks leading up to the transition.

And know that your child will receive the same love and individual attention in their new classroom. They’ll continue to be nurtured in a manner that meets their individual needs and supports their emotional, social, physical, language, and cognitive development.

As we mentioned, every child handles transitions differently. Knowing your child’s temperament and sharing this with a new teacher can play a key role in making this a smooth transition. Here are some insightful resources on how temperament can affect your child during transitions:

csefel.vanderbilt.edu/resources/wwb/wwb23.html

www.zerotothree.org/child-development/challenging-behavior/cautious-slow-to-warm-up.html